Grief in Children and Adolescents: A Developmentally Informed Clinical Review With Illustrative Cases

Grief in children and adolescents is a complex and often misunderstood process, distinct from adult mourning in both its expression and developmental impact. Young people may struggle to articulate their emotions, leading to behavioral changes that are frequently misinterpreted or overlooked in clinical practice. This review explores how grief manifests across developmental stages, highlighting age-specific responses, common clinical presentations, and factors that influence resilience or vulnerability. Drawing on current evidence and clinical insight, we examine assessment strategies and therapeutic approaches tailored to the needs of grieving children and adolescents. Case illustrations are used to provide context and deepen understanding. By emphasizing a developmentally sensitive, emotionally attuned, and culturally aware perspective, this article aims to equip clinicians with practical tools to better support children and adolescents coping with loss.